Barr appoints top Connecticut prosecutor to investigate inception of Russian 'collusion' probe

United States Attorney General William Barr has appointed a top Connecticut prosecutor to examine the origins of the investigation into Russia's alleged collusion during the 2016 presidential elections.

The New York Times reported that two officials familiar with the matter apprised that John H. Durham, the U.S. attorney in Connecticut, has been appointed by Barr to look into the probe's beginning. However, there is no official confirmation on Durham's appointment.

This is the third public investigation into the matter.

Meanwhile, Department of Justice inspector general Michael E. Horowitz is examining the use of wiretaps and pieces of information by investigators during the probe. He is also looking for possible political bias against incumbent President Donald Trump.

Additionally, John W. Huber, the United States attorney in Utah, has also been reviewing aspects of the investigation. His findings are yet to be revealed.

Republicans had conducted their own inquiries when they used to control the House, the newspaper reported.

Durham was appointed by Trump in 2017 and has been serving as Justice Department lawyer since 1982. He is known for conducting special investigations under the administration of both parties-Republican and Democrats.

Trump and House Republicans have long pressed Justice Department to appoint someone to investigate the inception of Russia's probe.

Last month, Special Counsel Robert Muller's report revealed that there was no criminal conspiracy between Russia and Trump's campaign during the 2016 polls. Although Mueller probed 10 instances of possible obstruction of justice by Trump, he did not make charges.

Subsequently, Barr said that no obstruction charges would be carried out against Trump.